You’re in the market for the best espresso machine yet you don’t want to spend $1,000+ for something that only the pros would use. That’s perfectly okay because there are GOBS of espresso machines for under $500 that should get the job done, and get the job done well at that!
You should be able to get a pretty high quality espresso machine for under $500 that is built to last, has many features, can brew your espresso quick and is overall a great investment.
We’ve pulled together multiple options from the most popular brands on the market, user reviews, pros, cons, all to help you find the best espresso machine under $500. Happy shopping!
How to Pick the Best Machine?
Picking the best espresso machine for your needs depends on a number of different factors. Some are:
How often do you drink coffee?
If you drink coffee and espresso daily, you may want to splurge on a nicer espresso machine. You may also not mind one that is larger and takes up more counter space because you use it all of the time. If you will rarely be making espresso, you may want to invest less money or buy one that is smaller so that you can take it out or put it away on an as-needed basis.
How long do you have to prepare coffee?
Different espresso machines take different times to have a shot of espresso pulled. Some have it done almost immediately (super automatic espresso machines) where others take much longer (semi automatic or even manual machines). If you need to make espresso and quickly run out the door, consider getting a super automatic machine that does everything for you in a timely manner.
Coffee maker or espresso machine?
If you want to make a large pot of coffee and sip on it throughout the day, or prepare caffeine for a large number of people, a coffee maker may be the way to go. If you’re okay with pulling shots of espresso one at a time, and don’t mind preparing each shot, an espresso machine may be the way to go.
How much can you afford to spend?
Espresso machines range from $100 to $3,000+, so pick one in the price range that suits your needs! You can find a pretty good espresso machine for under $500, but it may not be highly customizable and may not have coffee shop quality espresso, but that’s okay for most people. If you’re not a coffee fanatic, a cheaper machine will probably work for you just fine.
What Are The Top 5 Espresso Machines Under $500?
1. Gaggia Brera Superautomatic Espresso MachineThe Gaggia Brera Superautomatic Espresso Machine is an elegant brushed stainless steel with a compact design that looks great on any counter top. Even though it is small and compact it is not lacking in features. This espresso machine will grind your beans on demand from coarse to fine and also features a ground coffee department if you want to very it up a bit without removing your beans. This machine is self-cleaning to give you a sanitary shot of espresso every time. Pros
Cons
Product Photos![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Gaggia Brera Espresso Machine Reviews
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2. SAECO X-Small Automatic Espresso Machine with Built-In GrinderThe SAECO X-Small Automatic Espresso Machine is great quality for the price point. It allows you to grind your own beans within the machine which is a must-have for many coffee fanatics, it has a ceramic grinder so that it won’t burn the beans, has a milk frother, multiple settings to get your perfect brew & more. You can also pull two shots at once. Pros
Cons
Product Photos![]() ![]() SAECO X-Small Automatic Espresso Machine Reviews
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3. DeLonghi EN670.B Nespresso Lattissima Single-Serve Espresso MakerDeLonghi constantly products espresso machines with high user reviews and the DeLonghi EN670.B Nespresso Lattissima Single-Serve Espresso Maker one is no different. This machine is great if you are a frequent latte and cappuccino drinker having two coffee and milk options. While this works great with Nespresso capsules, it is not the machine for you if you wish to grind your own coffee beans. Pros
Pros
DeLonghi EN670.B Nespresso Lattissima Reviews
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4. Nespresso Pixie Espresso MakerThe Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker is a nice, compact little unit that is fairly versatile. It has programmable buttons for both espresso and lungo, is compatible with larger cups and can have your brew ready in just 30 seconds. It has backlit buttons, an water level detector and even can store your power cord. With this machine you do not have the option to grind your own coffee beans but you get the convenience of using Nespresso espresso pods. Pros
Cons
Product Photos![]() ![]() Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker Reviews
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5. Cuisinart EM-600 Buona Tazza Superautomatic Single Serve Espresso Caffe Latte Cappuccino MachineThe Cuisinart EM-600 Buona Tazza Superautomatic is great for anyone that wants a “hands-free, barista-quality cappuccino or latte”. This is for use wity illy capsules and can hold up to 10 capsules at a time. It has 8 LED controls for single or double espresso, manual flavor strength, one-touch latte or cappuccino and hot/hotter temperature settings for people that don’t like things simply warmish! This espresso machine has a 22-ounce milk container which can be used to make up to 6 cappuccinos – great for serving a small group. Pros
Cons
Cuisinart Buona Tazza Espresso Machine Reviews
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